Development of software for integrated dynamic analysis of multibody systems (Q1317539)

This paper describes software for two-dimensional analysis of large, complex mechanical systems. The software is a composite of individual units for modeling, mesh generation, multibody dynamics, and finite element analysis. The software is described as being easy to use due to graphic interfaces and to post processing capabilities. Results are displayed graphically and in color. An example, illustrating the software capabilities, is presented for stresses of the landing gear of a commercial airplane. The paper is primarily expository, and it is reasonably well-written. It should be of interest and use to designers and engineers concerned with complex planar mechanisms.